Meiji Unit Edited Out Material

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Homework

Read pp. 117 to 130, add 145-50 (omit the biographical sections) and follow the instructions below for the next class after the reading has been completed..

Think-Pair-Share - "Two heads are better than one," at least when it comes to solving a question or problem. For each of the questions below be prepared to share your thoughts to complete a unified response to that question.

  1. What was probably the biggest challenge in modernizing Japan? Support your opinion.
  2. What purpose(s) does forming a conscripted army serve in nation building?
  3. What characteristics of Prussia (later Germany) might have attracted Meiji reformers to copy much of their constitution for Japan?
  4. Look at the graphic evidence on p. 129, cite specific pieces of evidence that you believe supports the notion that Japan was becoming an industrialized nation.
  5. After reading "Meiji Japan: As Assessment" and "Conclusion" provide an explanation of why Japan was able to modernize in fifty years after Perry's visit, but China, which had many more years of contact with the West fell so far behind Japan. (One paragraph).
Homework

Read pp. 109-117 and answer the questions below.

  1. What is the historical significance of the Japanese expression kurobune? What does it suggest now?
  2. Why might the Japanese be disappointed with the Treaty of Kanagawa? What did one of the elements reminded them of the Chinese experience under a similar treaty?
  3. What choices did the Shogun have when faced with the treaty?
  4. Who were the shishi? What contribution did they be make in Japan’s history prior to World War II?
  5. Where were the Satsuma and Choshu clans? What was their position regarding the future of Japan? How is the reminiscent of an earlier time (think about their location, and even events that unfolded in their respective regions, i.e. Shimabara Revolt)?


The New Japan and Its Asian Neighbors